Villa held in Denmark

Late Odense goal leaves Intertoto Cup tie in balance

By Lewis Rutledge   Last updated: 20th July 2008

John Carew Aston Villa Premier League Football Everton

Carew: Opening goal

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Aston Villa conceded a last-gasp goal to draw 2-2 with Odense BK in the first leg of their Intertoto Cup tie.

Villa started brightly in Denmark and took the lead in only the seventh minute when John Carew slammed the ball home from close range following good work from Ashley Young.

Summer signing Steve Sidwell then made an inauspicious contribution after 25 minutes as he directed Atle Haland's left-wing cross past Stuart Taylor for an own goal.

Odense continued to provide Villa with a stern examination as the first half drew to a close and both teams created chances after the restart.

But it was Villa restored their lead on 76 minutes when Martin Laursen climbed highest to head in a Young free-kick.

Villa could not protect their advantage, however, and Anders Christensen struck for the home side in the 90th minute.

Martin O'Neill's men must now put the late disappointment behind them and bounce back in the second leg at Villa Park next Saturday.